Ear Surgery

Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)

Otoplasty or ear surgery is performed on children or adults who have protruding or misshapen ears and desire a more attractive appearance. The affected ears typically have an appearance of sticking out excessively and being flatter, lacking natural ear contours. By reshaping the ears and repositioning them closer to the head, otoplasty can dramatically improve the appearance of the ears, while lending proportion and harmony to the face.

Best Candidates for Ear Surgery

Children or adults with protruding ears may commonly suffer the emotional consequences of being teased by others. This can adversely affect their self-esteem, and cause them to alter their hairstyles in order to keep their ears covered. Following otoplasty, patients typically experience an increase in self-esteem and become much more confident in social situations.

Procedure & Recovery

Surgery lasts between one and two hours and can be performed under local or general anesthesia. Most adults and teenagers can choose to have the procedure performed under local anesthesia with or without sedation. Younger children may require general anesthesia. Incisions are placed behind the ear to be as inconspicuous as possible. Dr. Breitbart reshapes the cartilage to achieve the desired contour and position. Most patients are able to return to school or work within a few days of the procedure, but any strenuous activity where the ear could be bumped should be avoided for about a month. The results of otoplasty generally provide a permanent correction of the ear contour.

Ear Surgery FAQs

Can otoplasty correct misshapen ears?

Yes. Otoplasty can reshape the ears and reposition them closer to the head. Otoplasty can dramatically improve the appearance of the ears.

Where are incisions made?

Incisions are typically made behind the ear.

How soon after surgery can you return to work and school?

Patients can return to school or work within just a few days after surgery. However, all strenuous activity should be avoided until the body has time to recover.

Are there any age restrictions for this kind of surgery?

Patients have to be at least six years old to allow for full growth of ears. It is recommended that otoplasty be conducted at an early age if possible to avoid ridicule and self-esteem issues if possible. However, otoplasty is also commonly performed in adults as well.